ESPN's Adam Rubin mentions that Hisanori Takahashi was briefly a member of the Cincinnati Reds' organization after they him claimed off waivers last week (via Nikkan Sports). A snip:

The Reds had claimed Takahashi off waivers, giving the club an exclusive negotiating window with the Japanese pitcher. Takahashi had five days to refuse the claim and become a free agent, which he did Friday, according to an official familiar with the transaction.

...

A Mets source indicated Takahashi was seeking a three-year deal in the $4 million to $5 million range a season. The pitcher openly indicated throughout the season that his preference was to pitch as a starting pitcher.